Definition
The band of radio frequencies from 30 to 300 megahertz (MHz). In aviation, VHF is the primary band used for short-range air-to-ground voice communication (typically 118.000-136.975 MHz) and for several navigation aids including VOR and ILS localizers.
Plain English
A specific range of radio frequencies that pilots use to talk to controllers and to receive signals from many ground-based navigation aids. Most cockpit radios you use in everyday flying operate in this band.
Context Anchor
Seen in radio communication, navigation receiver, and precipitation static discussions, especially when static noise may affect what the pilot hears or receives.
Derivation
From the radio spectrum naming convention. As radio engineers mapped out usable frequencies, they grouped them into bands and named each one by where it sat on the scale: high frequency (HF), very high frequency (VHF), ultra high frequency (UHF), and so on. So 'very high' here is a position on the radio spectrum, not a quality rating.
Why Pilots Care
VHF radios are the primary means of ATC contact; precipitation static can render them unusable if not managed.
Intuition Check
Do not read “very high” as “very powerful.” VHF names a frequency range, not the strength or quality of the radio signal.
Example Sentence 1
After takeoff, the pilot tuned the VHF radio to the departure controller's frequency.
Example Sentence 2
Heavy rain created precipitation static that drowned out the VHF transmissions until the pilot reduced airspeed.